Samaranayake's Essential Microbiology for Dentistry

**Selected for 2026 Doody's Core Titles in Dentistry**

A sound knowledge of microbiology is essential for all dental professionals - it’s the key to understanding major oral pathologies, from tooth decay to gum disease, as well as the regimentation of infection control in a successful dental practice. Samaranayake’s Essential Microbiology for Dentistry once again, provides a comprehensive coverage of the basics of clinical oral microbiology and immunology and their relevance to oral disease, as well as the cotemporary discoveries of the oral microbiome, and the constituent flora. Both the novice student, as well as the experienced professionals are guided, in a stepwise manner, through a tour of the microbial world and how they impact oral health. The reasoned, bare bones approach to the essential elements of the subject is, as in previous editions fresh, lucid and logical. The sixth edition of this popular book, now translated into four different languages, has been fully revised and reformatted and includes brand new sections on emerging topics such as COVID-19 and infection control.